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Labelling AI images

Since 2 August 2026, the labelling of certain AI-generated and AI-edited images has been mandatory. The legal basis for this is Article 50 of the EU AI Act.

Three AI logos with frames and asterisks

© Virdauso / stock.adobe.com

[Translate to English:]

Since 2 August 2026, the labelling of certain AI-generated and AI-edited images has been mandatory. This primarily affects images that appear realistic and may therefore give the false impression of being authentic photographs.

The legal basis for this is Article 50 of the EU AI Act.

With immediate effect, please ensure that for all new content on the website, on social media and in print publications, you check whether an image is AI-generated or AI-modified and therefore must be labelled as such. The PR and Marketing Team provides templates for labelling in coLAB. You can also find further information and examples there.

What needs to be labelled?

In particular, AI-generated or AI-modified images that show real or conceivably real content and therefore have the potential to be misleading must be labelled. These include, in particular, photorealistic AI images and photographs that have been modified in this way.

Schematic representations, infographics or obviously illustrative graphics, which do not give the impression of being a real photograph, are generally not required to be labelled.

How should images be labelled?

The label must be clear and immediately recognisable to viewers; we therefore recommend putting it directly on the image. Please use the labels and templates provided in coLAB for this purpose.

To ensure consistent labelling, TU Wien uses the terms AI generated for images generated entirely by AI and AI modified for real images that have been modified using AI. If in doubt, the AI label may be used.

What to consider in practice?

Please also check images from external agencies, stock image providers or service providers. If it is unclear whether an image requires labelling, please feel free to contact us at pr@tuwien.ac.at before publication.

For content that has already been published: when republishing, revising or reprinting, please also check whether labelling is required.

The labelling requirements are laid down by law; breaches of the transparency obligations under the AI Act may result in regulatory measures and fines. For this reason, we recommend always using the AI label if in doubt.

If you have any questions, please contact the PR and Marketing Department at pr@tuwien.ac.at.